Birdbath I

Finbar Ward

Birdbath I was born out of a collaboration with garden designer Harry Holding for the RHS No Adults Allowed Feature Garden at the 2024 Chelsea Flower Show. After a series of workshops with South London school children, Harry and Finbar turned their fantastical garden designs into a reality. The mark making in these bird baths is inspired by the intuitive and playful drawings created in the classroom.

Birdbath I – which was part of the RHS Feature Garden at Chelsea – uses deadwood sourced from RHS Wisley and hand-dug clay from the area surrounding Finbar’s old studio in Wiltshire. The birdbath elements on each are made up of a clay and Jesmonite mix, which is packed into moulds and left to cure. The finish is created when the mixture is still wet, with ‘impact’ mark making, brushstrokes and pigmentation.

Each birdbath is handmade in Finbar’s studio and, due to its material components, will have its own unique variations. Further bespoke editions are available, using deadwood, colours and dimensions particular to the client. Please enquire for more information.

Please note: Deadwood needs to be positioned on a level and secure surface. This may require the area to be prepared in advance. Each work consists of two parts: the wood and the clay/Jesmonite cast. Two people are required in order for the piece to be safely installed.

The casts are treated with a waterproofing agent but the works will age over time; subtle discolouration and general wear from exposure to the elements should be expected. As long as they’re positioned according to advice, the pieces are structurally robust.